HIATUS HERNIA

What is the Diaphragm?

The diaphragm is a thin muscle that separates the chest and abdomen and helps in breathing.
There is a natural small hole in it through which the food pipe passes to reach the stomach.

3. How Does Hiatus Hernia Happen?

When the opening in the diaphragm becomes loose or wide, the upper part of the stomach slips upward into the chest.

4. What are the Types of Hiatus Hernia?

a) Sliding Hiatus Hernia (Common)

• Stomach moves up and down.

• Often causes acidity and reflux.

b) Para-esophageal Hiatus Hernia (Less common but serious)

• Part of stomach stays in chest beside food pipe.

• Can get stuck or twisted, which is dangerous.

5. What are the Common Symptoms?

• Heartburn / burning in chest

• Acidity or sour taste in mouth

• Chest pain

• Difficulty swallowing

• Bloating and belching

• Chronic cough or throat irritation

• Symptoms worsen after heavy meals or lying down

(Some people may have no symptoms.)

6. What Causes Hiatus Hernia?

• Ageing

• Obesity

• Pregnancy

• Chronic cough

• Heavy lifting

• Constipation / straining

• Smoking

7. How is Hiatus Hernia Diagnosed?

Doctors may advise:

• Endoscopy – camera test

• Barium X-ray

• pH study or manometry (sometimes)

8. How is Hiatus Hernia Treated?

Lifestyle Changes

• Eat small frequent meals

• Avoid spicy and oily foods

• Do not lie down immediately after eating

• Lose weight

• Stop smoking and alcohol

• Sleep with head raised

Medicines

• Antacids

• Acid-reducing tablets (PPIs)

• Control symptoms but do not remove hernia

Surgery

• Needed if symptoms are severe, not controlled by medicines, or in para-esophageal hernia

• Usually done by laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery

9. What are the Possible Complications?

• Severe acidity

• Ulcers

• Bleeding

• Narrowing of food pipe

• Stomach twisting (rare but serious)

10. In Simple Words, What Does It Mean?

Hiatus hernia means the stomach slips upward into the chest through a weak opening, causing heartburn and acidity. Most people improve with diet changes and medicines; only a few need surgery.